Playing Poker While Pregnant

In my last article I told you that I was reading Super System, by Doyle Brunson. There have been some changes in my life and therefore I have yet to write a review or comment about that book. I am still reading it, so for that, I´m sorry.

There is a huge transformation happening to me and it has changed my life totally. I am trying to cope with my regular routine and playing poker has been a big challenge lately.

The reason about all of this is a blessing I can tell you about. There isn´t anything more beautiful in the world than developing a life inside you and being gifted to give birth. Yes, I´m pregnant!

So, I am dealing with all the morning sickness that you have heard about in women in this situation and other problems, but nothing serious. I had to quit my job and stay at home, resting the best I can. Of course there are some days when I´m fine and then I play poker, not just because I like it, but because it’s a good distraction.

I´ve tried to grind SNGs but this has been not so easy because some days I start out feeling good, and then suddenly that good feeling is gone.

I think, honestly, that women are superstars. I´m not trying to be a feminist by saying this. Women have to deal with jobs, home, friends, family and being pregnant! This shows that you have to be stronger than you ever thought you would. I know many women don´t experience this sickness, but either way, it’s a serious life change. For a poker player even more so. How do you study your games? Grind games? Have a poker routine that justifies your efforts? Not easy, when you’re pregnant!

All these questions cross my mind because we all know there´s no other way to be successful in poker if you don´t have a goal to follow and a discipline to get you there.

I was playing part time when I was working as a part time teacher. Sometimes it’s just impossible to play at any time of the day.

You just have to take a deep breath and do the best you can. If women in my situation feel weird, believe me they are just human and there´s nothing wrong with that.

What do I think about all of this? Well, poker isn’t going anywhere, so here in Brazil, if I can´t dedicate the 50% as I used to, I´ll try to give the game 25% on the days that is possible. When I can play and study more, I will.

If you are playing poker for fun, or if you’re serious about the game and you can´t devote as much time to it, for any reason, don´t feel bad. Always try to remember that you are a mortal and that you will start up again the next time you sit down at the table. Just give yourself some time. Never pressure yourself because not only will you probably play your worst game, but you will also not enjoy it.

I promise you guys that I´ll finish reading Doyle Brunson’s amazing book as soon as possible and then I will write the review. I just felt like sharing what’s been happening to me. I know that some people read my articles and that makes me really happy.

Keep playing, keep studying! Never give up!

Good luck and see you soon,

Dri

Adriana Teixeira has been playing poker since 2006. She has Portuguese citizenship but now lives in Brazil, where she was born. She became interested in poker after watching the film “Casino Royale” with her husband, who is also a poker player. She works as teacher and plays poker part time, particularly enjoying playing Omaha Hi/Lo. When she’s not playing poker, Adriana enjoys writing and reading.